Old-time Mother's Day

Take a tour of the farms in the morning, then treat Mom to a special Mother’s Garden Party on the grounds of the historic Flynn home. Play croquet, create your own calling card, learn etiquette and make a special gift for Mom. Learn more at www.lhf.org.

Have an adventure at Blank Park Zoo

See the animals in the springtime and enjoy Adventure Days programming, focusing on healthy people (Saturday), a healthy planet (June 8), healthy minds (July 13) and healthy animals (Aug. 10). Kids can take part in crafts and games, as well as participate in scavenger hunts and other activities while learning about the importance of conservation. Plan your trip at www.blankparkzoo.com.

Saturday

Dance Baby Dance — After hitting the Downtown Farmers Market, let the kids burn off some energy at Dance Baby Dance. They can participate in group activities or just do their own thing. $5 per person or $12 per family. 10 a.m.-noon Des Moines Social Club at the Kirkwood, 400 Walnut St.

Amanda the Panda 5K/Festival — Help raise money for the Amanda the Panda program by partici­pating in a 5K race and joining in the fun. Kids can run in their own color dash. Enjoy live music, food and more. $35 5K, $10 kids’ color run. 5-8 p.m. Raccoon River Park, 2500 Grand Ave. Register at www.amandathepanda.org.

Friday

Family Night at SCI — Kick off the weekend with the family by exploring the Science Center after-hours. Build a rocket, travel through outer space in one of the experience platforms or catch an IMAX movie. Free with general admission. Explore online at www.sciowa.org for packages. 5-8 p.m. Science Center of Iowa, 401 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway.

Ghosts of Dallas County — Hear ghost stories around the campfire about animals that were once roaming Iowa’s landscape and animals that might be in danger of becoming ghosts. Dress for the weather. Free. 8-9:30 p.m. Kuehn Conservation Area, 32849 Houston Trail, Earlham. Register by calling 465-3577.